China’s unprecedented decision to include South Korea in its visa-free policy could redirect the travel patterns of young Korean tourists. (Image courtesy of Yonhap) SEOUL, Nov. 5 (Korea Bizwire) – China’s unprecedented decision to include South Korea in its visa-free policy could redirect the travel patterns of young Korean tourists, who have recently favored Japan as their primary destination in Asia.
According to aviation industry sources on November 4, China will implement a visa waiver program for nine countries, including South Korea, from November 8 through the end of next year. This marks the first time China has included South Korea in such an initiative. The policy will allow holders of ordinary passports to stay in China for up to 15 days without a visa for business, tourism, family visits, or transit purposes.
Previously, travelers to China faced visa processing times of up to seven days and varying costs depending on the type of visa – standard, express, or ultra-express. The cumbersome visa application process, which required in-person visits to visa centers, had made China a less appealing destination for young travelers who prioritize convenience and flexibility. Industry experts anticipate a surge in Chinese tourism, which had declined sharply due to the THAAD dispute and COVID-19 pandemic.
Government data shows that air passenger traffic between South Korea and China from January to September reached 10.3 million, only 75.1% of 2019′s pre-pandemic .